Peter Obi has called on members of the European Parliament to deepen their engagement with Africa, stressing that Nigeria’s stability and progress are directly tied to Europe’s long-term security and economic interests.
He made the push during a day of high-level consultations in Strasbourg, where he met lawmakers across multiple committees.
The former presidential candidate used the sessions to outline how stronger political and economic cooperation could help reverse the structural challenges confronting African nations.
In his engagements with parliamentary committees on foreign affairs, civil liberties, justice, home affairs, development, transport and tourism, as well as the Africa-EU Delegation, Obi pressed for a renewed partnership built on transparency and development-focused policies.
He emphasised that Africa’s immense population, natural resources and young talent pool should make it a global growth hub, yet misgovernance continues to keep millions in poverty.
“Africa is overflowing with potential, but poor leadership has held us down for decades,” Obi said. “Nigeria mirrors this reality, and reversing it will require support for stronger institutions and accountable governance.”
Obi urged European lawmakers to back initiatives that strengthen democratic processes, encourage credible elections and promote leaders with competence and integrity.
He noted that improved governance would unlock progress in sectors that have kept Nigeria stagnant, power supply, education, health care and security.
He also highlighted the importance of targeted investment in young Nigerians, describing them as a highly driven demographic capable of transforming the economy if given the right support.
“Our youths are not short of ideas or ambition; what they lack are opportunities,” he stated, adding that their productivity would benefit both Africa and Europe.
Obi maintained that a more prosperous and secure Africa ultimately boosts regional stability.
He insisted that collaboration must go beyond rhetoric and translate into tangible support for reforms that lift people out of poverty and strengthen institutions across the continent.
He concluded with a call for optimism about Nigeria’s future, insisting that “a country should work for all its citizens and remain a contributor to global progress”.